WILMINGTON — Sergeant Major William Jasper “Billy” Shaw, Jr. (Ret.), U.S. Army, 91, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Billy was born to William Jasper Shaw, Sr. and Effie Hewett Shaw, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his sisters, Ruth Long and Carol Bradshaw, and his brother, Franklin Shaw.
A proud patriot, Billy honorably served his country in the United States Army for more than 22 years, retiring on June 30, 1976, with the rank of Sergeant Major. His distinguished military career began at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, on September 23, 1953. During his years of service, he was stationed in Berlin, Germany, served in Korea, completed two tours in Vietnam, and was later assigned to Greece. In 1965, he proudly deployed with the advance party of the 15th Medical Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division, at An Khe, Vietnam, known as the “Golf Course.”
Throughout his military career, Sergeant Major Shaw earned numerous awards and decorations, including two Bronze Star Medals, three Army Commendation Medals, the Presidential Unit Citation, the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, the Army of Occupation Medal (Germany), the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Good Conduct Medal (5th Award), and many other honors recognizing his faithful and courageous service to his country.
Following his retirement from the Army, Billy embraced life with the same spirit of service and adventure that had defined his military career.
He purchased a pool room and grill in Aiken, S.C. in the 70’s. He and his step-son Josef enjoyed working together there.
Leaving Aiken, he moved to Key West, Florida, where he enjoyed fishing, formed lifelong friendships, and worked as a tour guide at the Harry S. Truman Little White House. Later, he moved to Port Orange, Florida, where he volunteered as a docent at the historic Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, sharing his love of history with visitors from around the world.
One of life’s greatest blessings came when Billy returned to Wilmington, North Carolina, where he was reunited with the family he dearly loved.
Pam and Barbara were truly grateful for the care he gave their mother’s Doris Ward and Ella Raye Insco, offering companionship, laughter, and unwavering support during their later years.
Billy especially treasured traveling throughout the United States with his cousin Barbara and her husband, Jeff. Every journey became an adventure, creating memories they will cherish forever. He never turned down good seafood, especially Ruth’s famous fried spots, and he delighted in sharing meals with family and friends.
Billy had a generous heart and a gentle spirit. He had a special love for fellow veterans, children, and animals, especially dogs. Throughout his life he was devoted to many beloved canine companions, with Sammy becoming his faithful sidekick during his later years and accompanying him on nearly every adventure.
Those left to cherish his memory include his brother, James Shaw and wife, Liz; his stepson, Josef Jacobson; son, Ron Doornick (Katherine), granddaughter Elizabeth Doornick; his special cousins, Pam Johnson (Dexter), Frank Ward (Jill), Barbara Cavenaugh (Jeff), Mike Insco (Michelle), Billy Insco (Melissa) along with many beloved cousins, extended family members, dear friends, and fellow veterans.
Billy will be remembered as a decorated soldier, devoted family man, loyal friend, adventurous traveler, and passionate animal lover. Although he proudly served his country for more than 22 years and earned numerous military honors, those who loved him will remember him most for his generous heart, quiet strength, quick wit, and unwavering willingness to help others. Whether sharing stories of his Army days, enjoying fresh seafood with family, traveling the country with Barbara and Jeff, or spending time with his beloved dog Sammy by his side, Billy embraced life with gratitude and joy. His legacy is not only one of honorable military service, but of kindness, loyalty, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A special thank you to Laura with Lower Cape Fear LifeCare for her wonderful care and compassion.
A graveside service with full military honors will be held at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Scotts Hill, North Carolina, with the date and time to be announced.
To honor Billy’s lifelong love of animals, the family welcomes donations to the animal rescue of your choice, in lieu of flowers.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
